The technology in our office allows us to provide the best possible pediatric dental and orthodontic care for your child. We hope it makes our office comfortable during your visit. Here are examples of some of the technology we employ.
WIRELESS INTERNET CONNECTION:
You may use our free connection to work during your child’s appointment. Patients and siblings can also use the connection to complete homework assignments. Feel free to bring your laptop to any of your appointments.
DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY:
We use digital radiography to reduce the amount of radiation your child receives during a radiographic examination. Digital radiography requires less radiation to obtain an image and allows us to manipulate the image to gain more information. We are conservative in obtaining radiographs and order them only when needed. Digital films give us the capability to email films, save them to CD or print copies for you, your dentist or any other dental specialist involved in your child’s treatment.
SOFT TISSUE LASER:
A soft tissue laser has many uses in dentistry. We primarily use our laser to remove excess gum tissue during orthodontic treatment. This results in less treatment time and better cosmetic outcomes at the end of treatment. Dr. Christensen also use the laser to treat apthuous ulcers and other common soft tissue problems to help them heal faster.
SELF-LIGATING ORTHODONTIC BRACKETS:
Self-ligating brackets are braces that do not require steel wire or rubber O rings to hold the wire in place. This reduces initial friction so less force is necessary to move a tooth. This is more comfortable for the patient. Self-ligating brackets are cleaner than traditional braces so the patient has less plaque to clean off their teeth. It is easier for our assistants to open and close the brackets so there is less time for your child in the chair. We use the Damon self-ligating bracket (www.damonbraces.com).
INVISALIGN:
We offer Invisalign. Invisalign is a series of computer generated clear retainers that slowly straighten teeth without braces. The Invisalign retainers (or trays) are essentially invisible and are very comfortable for the patient to wear. Invisalign will not work in all cases and Dr. Christensen will help you understand when they are indicated for your child. (www.invisalign.com/Pages/Home.aspx)
DOLPHIN IMAGING:
Dr. Christensen uses the Dolphin Imaging System for orthodontic treatment planning. The Dolphin System enables us to plan tooth movement and "morph" images. We use your images to educate you about your bite and show you how you may be able to benefit from orthodontic treatment. Throughout treatment, we can update the images to show you your tooth movement. At the end of treatment, you will be able to compare your before and after photos . . . this will help you enjoy and appreciate your new smile! (www.dolphinimaging.com)
CONTINUING EDUCATION:
Dr. Christensen and our clinical staff keep informed of all the latest procedures available for our patients. They attend many lectures and training programs. In addition, Dr. Christensen teaches at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and lectures to other dentists. Dr. John may ask you if he can use your photos in his next presentation! |
